MILES CITY, MONTANA: In conjunction with workforce development, Miles Community College is hosting its annual Teachers Institute classes. These professional development opportunities feature one- and two-day courses, focused on a variety of subjects, and aimed at teachers seeking OPI credit renewal. They are also open to the public to those interested in the subjects offered.
Eight classes remain this summer, with online registration available leading up until a few days before each session. Registration costs are based per class, with some additional fees for those requiring travel or meals. This year features subjects including solar power, youth mental health, student engagement, Montana history, and educational leadership.
Course Schedule/Descriptions:
June 28 - Solar Panel Energy System Rack Mount
Students will construct a simple electric battery, calculate voltage and amperage for a variety of systems, design a personal system, discuss solar applications, research costs, and tour existing system.
July 1 – National Cinemas (Online Only)
An in-depth look at classic cinematic productions from the United States based on cultural and historical context. Includes a selection of films by a variety of directors and genres from the Silent Era into the present. Students will consider American films that have been affected by American culture and films that have affected American culture.
July 11-12 – Empowering Student Voice and Increasing Student Engagement
Students will learn the value of student voice and ways to incorporate student voice in various areas. Attendees will also review examples of students who were empowered and analyze impacts, determine ways to implement student voice in the classroom, and create/rework lesson plans to increase student voice.
July 12-13 – Wolf Mountain Battle
On January 8, 1877, Col. Nelson Miles engaged Sioux warriors led by Crazy Horse five miles south of Birney, MT. This was Crazy Horse's last major encounter prior to his April 1877 surrender at Ft. Robinson in South Dakota. Students will research the "what, why, and how" during this informative class. Class includes field trip to the battlefield; lunch provided.
July 17-18 – Exploring Cultural Diversity through Art
Students will create three separate art projects, utilizing Indian Education for All (IEFA) components. One day will be used to create speaking sticks and Southwest pottery, while the remaining day will be spent beading on a loom. Attendees will have fun experiencing the art process! They will walk away with amazing art and lesson plans for their classroom(s)! Lessons are geared toward 3rd grade and above but can be scaled down for younger groups.
July 24 – Youth Mental Health First Aid
Youth Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges. Lunch period is shorter to allow for more instructional time and group discussion; lunch is provided.
July 24-25 – Integrate Arts to Engage Students and Deepen Understanding
Are you looking for a new approach to engage students and develop a deeper understanding, all while minimizing behavior issues? If so, arts integration is for you! In this hands-on course, you will discover a variety of project-based activities (one or more for each month of the year). While the target audience is for grades 3-6, the projects can be adapted for grades K-8 and will encompass a wide variety of subjects. Whether you are new to teaching or a seasoned veteran, you will be ready to start the school year with many new ideas to implement in your classroom! Students will be provided art materials they can take with them following course completion.
July 30-31 – Educational Leadership (The Powerful Impact of PLC Design)
Attention teacher leaders, team leaders, or those looking for more information related to instructional learning! Professional learning communities (PLCs) are inspirational tools that can help educators make informed decisions regarding student learning. Attendees will be able to apply course instruction to their current role in teaching and leave with a greater understanding of the PLC process. **Recommended reading PLC+ Better Decisions and Greater Impact by Design published by Corwin.
For the current schedule or to register, visit bit.ly/MCCTeachersInstitute. For more information, please contact Elizabeth Smith, MCC Workforce Development Coordinator at 406-874-6168 or smithe@milescc.edu.
